Dementia: Air pollution from wildfires may increase risk, case numbers
Dementia: Air pollution from wildfires may increase risk, case numbers Medical News Today
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Wildfires and Agricultural Spraying Linked to Increased Risk of Dementia
A new study from the University of Michigan has found that wildfires and air pollution from agricultural spraying are the most damaging sources of air pollution when it comes to brain health. The study emphasizes the importance of addressing these sources of pollution in order to reduce the risk of dementia.
Key Findings:
- Wildfires and agricultural spraying increase the lifelong risk of dementia more than air pollution from other sources.
- Tiny particulates in air pollution can easily enter the body and affect the brain through inflammation or direct crossing of the brain-blood barrier.
- Even non-extreme levels of air pollution may be sufficient to increase the risk of dementia.
The study, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, analyzed data from the Health and Retirement Study covering the period from January 1, 1998, to December 31, 2016. The researchers followed the cognitive health of 27,857 individuals over the age of 50 who did not have dementia at the start of the study for just over ten years. The study estimated that nearly 188,000 new cases of dementia per year in the U.S. can be attributed to exposure to PM2.5, which refers to particulate matter two and a half microns or smaller in size.
PM2.5 is capable of entering the body and affecting the brain due to its tiny size. It can cause inflammation in the lungs, which can then release inflammation factors into the bloodstream and contribute to brain inflammation. PM2.5 may also impact the blood vessels that supply oxygen to the brain and can even directly enter the brain through the nose.
Prior studies have also found a statistical association between PM2.5 and an elevated risk of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The relationship between PM2.5 and dementia is considered causal, based on quasi-random variation in PM2.5 exposures among more than two million nationally representative seniors over a decade.
Wildfires release toxic components as they incinerate natural and synthetic materials, making them highly damaging to brain health. Agricultural spraying, which involves the use of neurotoxic pesticides, also contributes to the risk of dementia. The neurotoxins in these pesticides may coat particles in the air, allowing them to enter the body through inhalation or other pathways.
The study highlights the need to revise air pollution standards, as even levels of PM2.5 considered benign by current standards can affect cognition. However, accurately measuring individual exposure to PM2.5 remains a challenge, as air quality is typically measured in broader areas rather than at specific locations.
Future research should focus on improving the measurement of exposure to PM2.5 and developing advanced modeling effects for source-specific PM2.5. Addressing the sources of air pollution, such as wildfires and agricultural spraying, is crucial for reducing the risk of dementia and promoting brain health.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 15: Life on Land
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
- SDG 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries.
- SDG 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services, in particular forests, wetlands, mountains, and drylands, in line with obligations under international agreements.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Indicator for SDG 3.9: Number of deaths and illnesses attributed to air pollution.
- Indicator for SDG 13.1: Number of people affected by climate-related hazards and natural disasters.
- Indicator for SDG 15.1: Percentage of forest area protected or sustainably managed.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination. | Number of deaths and illnesses attributed to air pollution. |
| SDG 13: Climate Action | 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries. | Number of people affected by climate-related hazards and natural disasters. |
| SDG 15: Life on Land | 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services, in particular forests, wetlands, mountains, and drylands, in line with obligations under international agreements. | Percentage of forest area protected or sustainably managed. |
The article addresses the issues related to air pollution, wildfires, and their impact on brain health and dementia. These issues are connected to multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) including SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).
Based on the content of the article, specific targets under these SDGs can be identified:
Under SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), the target 3.9 aims to reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination. This target is relevant to the issues discussed in the article as air pollution, specifically PM2.5 particles from wildfires and agricultural spraying, is linked to an increased risk of dementia.
Under SDG 13 (Climate Action), the target 13.1 focuses on strengthening resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters. The article highlights the impact of wildfires, which are exacerbated by climate change, on air pollution and brain health.
Under SDG 15 (Life on Land), the target 15.1 aims to ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems, including forests. The article mentions the release of damaging particulates into the air through agricultural spraying, which can affect air quality and potentially harm ecosystems.
The article also mentions indicators that can be used to measure progress towards these targets. For SDG 3.9, the indicator would be the number of deaths and illnesses attributed to air pollution. For SDG 13.1, the indicator would be the number of people affected by climate-related hazards and natural disasters. For SDG 15.1, the indicator would be the percentage of forest area protected or sustainably managed.
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: medicalnewstoday.com
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